Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch american eel.
Island Baby Islamorada
Tavernier, Florida
Flying Thief Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Key West Tarpon Fishing with Flying Thief Charters. Let us be your guide to the best Bonefish Spin Fishing, and excellent Flats Fishing in the Florida Keys.
Fat Cat Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions offers offshore and inshore fishing, snorkeling, sandbars, sunset cruise, or just a ride, I’m your guide. My Name is Captain Brian and I live in the Lower Florida Keys.
Double O Fishing Charter
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Tarpon Trips
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fishing
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fly Fishing Guide - Rates and Information. Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit Photo Gallery. Book your fishing charter now.
Stock Island Fishing Charters
Naval Air Station Key West, Florida
Stock Island fishing charters at the entrance to Key West. Many different charters offered for all types of anglers and vacationers.
Captain Eddie Griffiths Charters
Key West, Florida
Dry Tortugas fishing trips with Andy Griffiths charters out of Key West, Florida. Overnight fishing to Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas and Marquesas Keys. Enjoy fishing and diving on your private charter, 2 or 3 day fishing charters for snapper, grouper, mahi mahi, wahoo and more. Best reef and wreck fishing available year round in the Florida Keys and west of Key West near the Dry Tortugas National Park.
Captain Bill Lowman Anna Maria Sportfishing
Holmes Beach, Florida
Anna Maria Island Charter Fishing Guide
Destination Fish Charters
Marco Island, Florida
Danny Fabian is one of Southwest Florida's premier backwater and sport fishermen in Naples and Marco Island, Florida. As a professional fishing quide, Danny specializes in fishing in Everglades National Park and focuses on Snook, Grouper, Tarpon, Trout, Redfish.
Captain Rio Adventures
Marco Island, Florida
Go fish with fun catching Charter fishing at its best!
Best Time to Catch American Eel
Peak season: May, June. Also good: March, April, July, August. Right now in February, activity is fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
American Eel
Targeting American eels in Destin, Florida, presents a unique angling challenge, as they aren't the most common catch in this area better known for its Gulf Coast sportfish. However, the brackish waters where the Choctawhatchee Bay meets the Gulf offer the best opportunities. These eels tend to prefer muddy bottoms and areas with structure like docks, submerged vegetation, and oyster beds. Spring and fall are prime times; eels are more active when water temperatures are moderate. For access, try fishing from the shore around the Mid-Bay Bridge or exploring the bayous accessible from various boat ramps along Highway 98. A simple bottom rig with cut bait, such as mullet or squid, works well. Be aware that Destin eels may be smaller than those found further north, so adjust your tackle accordingly. Because they aren't a primary target, be prepared for bycatch, and always check local regulations regarding size and possession limits.
How to Catch American Eel
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for American Eel in Destin.
American Eel Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
9-inch minimum
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Eels may only be harvested by hook and line, trotlines, or manually operated lift gear no more than 10 feet square.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special license to catch American Eels in Destin, Florida?
You'll need a valid Florida freshwater fishing license to target American Eels.
Is there a limit to how many American Eels I can catch in Florida?
There is no bag limit for American Eels in Florida.
What is the smallest American Eel I can keep in Florida?
You can only keep American Eels that are 9 inches or longer in Florida.
Are there specific times of the year that are best for catching American Eels near Destin?
While American Eels can be caught year-round, they tend to be more active during warmer months.
Other Species to Fish in Destin
Ready to Catch American Eel in Destin?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.